The thyroid gland, located at the base of the neck, controls hair, blood pressure, and metabolism. If thyroid hormone levels become low or high, it can increase the risk of heart disease
Thyroid problems and their effects:
Today, about 6% of people are affected by thyroid problems, out of which 80% suffer from hypothyroidism, i.e., low thyroid hormone. This causes symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, dry skin
Hypothyroidism and heart disease:
When there is less thyroid hormone, the heartbeat slows down, blood pressure increases, and cholesterol levels can be high, which increases the risk of heart disease. Muscle pain and weakness can also occur.
Hyperthyroidism: Effect of excess thyroid hormone:
If thyroid hormone is produced in excess, the heartbeat becomes fast and irregular, blood pressure may increase, and problems like weight loss, sweating, insomnia, chest pain, and anxiety may also occur.
Who is at risk?
If someone in the family has had thyroid problems, If you are a woman, the risk of this problem is 5-8 times higher
People with certain diseases like diabetes, vitiligo, and arthritis are at higher risk
The thyroid and high blood pressure connection:
Hypothyroidism can cause high blood pressure because thyroid hormones control the heart’s beat and the way blood vessels work. When thyroid hormones are low, the heart slows down and blood pressure rises.
Symptoms of high blood pressure Many people don’t realize they have high blood pressure, but they can have some symptoms:
Headache, dizziness, chest pain, blurred vision, anxiety
Thyroid Medication and Blood Pressure:
Hypothyroidism is treated with levothyroxine, but 1 in 3 women does not get the right dose. That is why regular thyroid tests are important. When thyroid levels are stable, BP can also be controlled.
Is hypothyroidism a big problem for the heart?
Yes, because it slows down the heartbeat, increases blood pressure, increases cholesterol levels, and if left untreated, it can also increase the risk of heart disease.
How are heart problems diagnosed?
If you are having any heart-related problems, you should consult your doctor.
The doctor may recommend some tests.
The diagnosis process may include a combination of blood tests and heart imaging tests, such as Cardiac imaging, angiograms, Blood tests, echocardiograms, electrocardiograms, and a heart monitor
How to keep your heart healthy:
To keep your heart healthy, you need to eat a good healthy diet, take exercises regularly, live tobacco-free, control cholesterol and high blood pressure, drink alcohol and manage stress
ALSO READ: Hypothyroidism causes symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
Conclusion:
Thyroid is closely related to blood pressure and heart health. With regular checkups, proper treatment, and a healthy lifestyle, you can improve your health.
If you are experiencing symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, or palpitations, consult a doctor and get a thyroid test done.
